Focus on a Complete I-589 in Asylum Applications

Recent guidance from the Board of Immigration Appeals and immigration courts highlights an important point for asylum applicants: a critical requirement is a fully completed and properly filed Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal). This comes from a recent BIA case Matter of C-A-R-R-, 29 I&N Dec. 13 (BIA 2025).

A personal declaration (also known as Written Statement) in support of your asylum claim, while extremely helpful, does not replace the need for a fully completed I-589 asylum application. The Form I-589 must be complete, signed, and properly submitted, with all of the boxes in the form I-589 completed and all of the questions fully answered. You cannot simply refer the asylum.

The point of Matter of C-A-R-R- was not to downplay the importance and impact of a thorough and detailed declaration in support of your asylum claim (also known as your “asylum story”), but that even with a detailed declaration the I-589 must be fully completed and the form I-589 cannot simply refer to the declaration as the general practice has been for many years.

A declaration in support is still extremely important, and you should carefully prepare and provide your initial detailed declaration with your application for asylum and continue to update it and supplement your asylum declaration as needed or as new events take place while you are waiting for your asylum interview or hearing. See: Asylum Declaration: Initial, Supplemental, and Updated — What Is the Difference?

If the form I-589 is missing required information, contains incomplete answers, or lacks signatures, it may be considered deficient or improperly filed, which can lead to rejection, delays, or even denial. USCIS and immigration courts rely heavily on the information provided in the form, so it must be filled out carefully, accurately, and consistently.

From a practical standpoint, applicants should understand that Form I-589 is the foundation of the entire asylum case. It is the primary document reviewed by USCIS officers and immigration judges, and it establishes the core facts, legal basis, and timeline of the claim. Any inconsistencies or omissions in the form can create issues later in the process.

A properly prepared I-589 can make the difference between a strong case and a delayed or denied one. Many applicants don’t realize there are issues with their application until it is too late.

For nearly two decades, our law firm has represented clients in asylum cases before Immigration Courts and Asylum Offices across the United States. We have built a reputation for achieving strong results through experience, preparation, and a deeply personal approach to every case.

Our attorneys and staff do not treat cases as files. We take the time to understand each client’s story, step into their position, and develop a case strategy that reflects the full reality of what they have experienced. This level of commitment allows us to present clear, credible, and well-supported claims.

Our work has been consistently recognized by immigration judges, asylum officers, and court staff for its thoroughness, organization, and professionalism. We are known for being prepared, detail-oriented, and fully engaged in every stage of the process.

If you have a legitimate basis for asylum, it is critical that your case is handled properly from the start. This is not an area where shortcuts or low-quality representation should be accepted. Your future may depend on the strength of your application and the way your story is presented.

The asylum process involves extensive collection of evidence, careful legal analysis, multiple levels of review, and precise preparation of forms and supporting documentation. Even small mistakes can lead to delays, additional costs, or serious negative consequences.

We handle every aspect of this process and guide you toward the strongest possible outcome. When you retain our firm, we will:

• Determine the best timing and strategy for your case

• Identify potential risks or complications based on your background

• Prepare and review all required forms and supporting documentation

• Conduct detailed country conditions research

• Communicate with USCIS or the Immigration Court on your behalf

• Ensure full compliance with immigration laws and procedures

• Prepare you thoroughly for your asylum interview or court hearing, including direct participation

• Monitor deadlines and keep you informed at every stage

• Address issues as they arise and adjust strategy when necessary

• Keep you updated on any legal or policy changes affecting your case

If you are serious about your asylum case, trust a firm with proven experience, a strong reputation, and a commitment to doing the work the right way.

Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step toward securing your future.

Enara Shukurova

Immigration Paralegal

Consultations - I.S. Law Firm

P.: (703) 527-1779

E.: law@islawfirm.com

W.: islawfirm.com